ASRC Mourns The Passing Of Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye

Published: December 18, 2012

A friend of those across the Arctic, Inouye was given an Iñupiat name

Arctic Slope Regional Corporation is remembering Senator Daniel Inouye as a friend and tireless advocate for Hawaiians, Alaska Natives and American Indians. "He was a dear friend to Alaska and will always hold a special place in the hearts of the people from the Arctic Slope region. Even from such a warm state like Hawaii, Senator Inouye never flinched at traveling to our homeland in the Arctic to understand the issues facing our people. He will be missed and our sincerest condolences go out to his family," said Rex A. Rock, Sr., ASRC president and CEO.

Former ASRC Chairman and long-time friend, Oliver Leavitt recalled, "Senator Inouye was part of the Alaska family. An extension of his best-friend, Ted Stevens, Senator Inouye understood the value of teamwork and bi-partisanship. We are a stronger region and state because of his efforts. We mourn with his wife, Irene, and the people of Hawaii."
At an AFN naming ceremony in 2007, Senator Inouye was bestowed the Iñupiaq name of Albai, which means "the other; the partner; the counterpart". For any effort needing a continuous presence, the "Albai" takes over in rotation with his partner. This was especially true with Senators Inouye and Stevens.

A decorated war hero, Inouye first served in the U.S. House before being elected to the Senate in 1962. He became the second-longest running senator in history, behind his friend, the late Ted Stevens.
About ASRC

Arctic Slope Regional Corporation is owned by and represents the business interests of the Arctic Slope Iñupiat. Since opening enrollment in 1989 to Alaska Natives born after 1971, the corporation’s shareholder base has nearly tripled, growing from the 3,700 original enrollees to around 11,000 today. Corporate headquarters are based in Barrow, Alaska, with administrative and subsidiary offices located in Anchorage and throughout the United States. ASRC, along with its family of companies, is the largest Alaskan-owned company, employing approximately 10,000 people worldwide. The company has five major business segments: petroleum refining and marketing, energy support services, construction, government services and resource development.